Exam Preparation

Proper exam preparation helps us take the best possible images for diagnosis. In fact, some exams must be deferred if not properly prepared for. Your doctor may have provided you with necessary prep instructions.

It is suggested that you wear a two-piece outfit, so you can change into your robe more easily.

If you have any allergies, please let the technologist know.

Please arrive 15 minutes early, bring your requisition, Alberta Health Care card (or out of province health care card), and photo identification with you to your exam! Don’t worry, your doctor has already sent us the requisition in order for the booking to be made!

You are now required to wear a mask for your exam. Please bring one to your appointment.

If you are COVID-19 positive, have a fever, or have traveled outside the country within the last 14 days, please rebook your exam by calling us at 780-669-2222.

This will ensure the safety of our patients and staff, as well as reduce the risk of any potential spread. If you have any concerns, please reach out to Health Link at 811.

It is suggested that you wear a two-piece outfit, so you can change into your robe more easily.

Do not use deodorant, body powder, or lotion before exam.

If possible, refrain from caffeine for 2 days before your exam to minimize discomfort during compression (this includes chocolate, pop, tea, decaffeinated beverages, protein powders, vitamin water etc.).

It is suggested that you wear a two-piece outfit, so you can change into your robe more easily.

Do not use deodorant, body powder, or lotion before exam.

If possible, refrain from caffeine for 2 days before your exam to minimize discomfort during compression (this includes chocolate, pop, tea, decaffeinated beverages, protein powders, vitamin water etc.).

It is suggested that you wear a two-piece outfit, so you can change into your robe more easily.

Do not use deodorant, body powder, or lotion before the exam.

If possible, refrain from caffeine for 2 days before your exam to minimize discomfort during compression (this includes chocolate, pop, tea, decaffeinated beverages, protein powders, vitamin water etc.).

Stay hydrated for your exam by drinking two 8 ounce glasses of water 60 minutes before your exam.

Beta-blocker medication (Metoprolol) is necessary to slow your heart rate prior to the exam; prescribed by your ordering doctor. Please take this as directed (usually 1 pill the night before and 1 pill 2 hours before the exam).

Meadowlark Diagnostic Imaging has everything you need for your bowel emptying preparation. It is available for pick-up at our clinic one your appointment is booked. Detailed instructions are included to ensure optimal and successful bowel cleansing.

Please pick up your kit at least 3 days in advance of your exam.

Your kit will include a low-fibre diet and medication to assist bowel cleansing.

2 days before exam:

Start clear fluid diet. Includes water, juices without pulp such as white grape juice, cranberry or cranapple, decaffeinated coffee and soft drinks, popsicles, and weak tea without milk or cream. Broth, bouillon, and Boost are also acceptable clear fluids. Avoid all milk products.

Do not just drink water as you may feel faint.

You may take normal medications as directed. If you are on insulin, ask your physician about dose modifications.

1 day before exam:

Breakfast: Dissolve first package of PICO-SALAX in a glass of cold water stirring constantly for 2 to 3 minutes until all dissolved. If the solution heats while stirring, let it cool or add more cold water before drinking. Drink this glass followed by an equal or larger glass of juice. Drink 4 or 5 more glasses of clear fluid over the next hour. You will experience frequent bowel movements within an hour. Stay close to a washroom. Take first ½ of READI-CAT

Nothing to eat or drink after midnight the night before your exam; this includes no smoking, chewing gum, or candy. Your throat must be absolutely dry.

If possible, please refrain from taking any oral medications before your exam. Anything not taken by mouth is alright- ie. patches worn for health reasons are fine. We encourage patients to bring their medication to the exam, so they can take it afterwards.

Nothing to eat or drink after midnight the night before your exam; this includes no smoking, chewing gum, or candy. Your throat must be absolutely dry.

If possible, please refrain from taking any oral medications before your exam. Anything not taken by mouth is alright- ie. patches worn for health reasons are fine. We encourage patients to bring their medication to the exam so they can take it afterwards.

This exam lasts approximately 1-3 hours as the contrast agent travels at different rates in each person.

Gallium scans are done over two separate appointments, scheduled three days apart. The first appointment involves a tracer injection and lasts about 15 minutes. The second appointment is dedicated to imaging and will last about 45 minutes.

Gallium scans require a recent bone scan. If you have not had a bone scan within the last 30 days, you will be scheduled for two appointments:

The first appointment will include a bone scan, immediately followed by a tracer injection.

The second appointment for gallium imaging will take place three days later.

Inform the technologist if there is any chance you may be pregnant or if you are currently breastfeeding.

Inform the technologist if you are claustrophobic before you begin your exam.

If you are on oxygen, you will need to bring your own oxygen tank for the exam.

If you have not had a chest x-ray within 24 hours of your appointment, we will need to perform one with your lung ventilation and perfusion scan. Chest x-rays are done on-site and usually only take a few minutes.

Inform the technologist if there is any chance you may be pregnant or if you are currently breast feeding.

Inform the technologist if you are claustrophobic before you begin your exam.

Patients having Bi-Lateral Hip, Nerve Root Block, or Epidural Steroid injections must arrange for a driver or other transportation following their procedure.

Patients having Facet injections or Radio Frequency Ablation are not forced to arrange for a driver, however, we recommend you find one to err on the side of caution. Procedures can be lengthy and we do not recommend you operate a motor vehicle after the procedure.

Most patients receiving Joint Injections or Medial Branch Blocks should be fine to return to work the same day, depending on their occupation and injection site. Most patients are also fine to operate a motor vehicle following these procedures. If you have any questions or concerns talk to your doctor or our technologist after the procedure.

For spine injections please avoid chewing gum or carbonated drinks on the day of your exam. Additionally, please consult with your doctor and confirm with our booking agents if you need to discontinue any medications before your exam and for how long.

Please drink four (8oz) glasses of water, starting 90 minutes before your exam and finishing all four glasses 60 minutes before your exam. Please refrain from urinating until the exam has been completed.

Please drink four (8oz) glasses of water, starting 90 minutes before your exam and finishing all four glasses 60 minutes before your exam. Please refrain from urinating until the exam has been completed.

Please drink four (8oz) glasses of water starting 90 minutes before your exam, finishing all four glasses 60 minutes before your exam. Please refrain from urinating until the exam has been completed or you consult with your sonographer.

If you are having a Carotid Ultrasound, please wear a top that allows easy access to your neck. For other Vascular ultrasounds you may be asked to change into a gown, or to remove your pants or top, depending on whether your arm or leg is being examined.